The Community Investment Board (CIB) has proudly surpassed the £2 million milestone in awarded funding since its inception in 2021, marking a significant achievement in its ongoing mission to strengthen and support Southend’s voluntary and community sector.

Following the announcement of the latest round of funding from the 2025–2026 investment pot, the Board is thrilled to confirm that it has now injected a total of £2,216,446 million in vital funding into the Southend Voluntary Sector to a total of 243 projects, supporting grassroots initiatives, community services, and programmes that make a tangible difference to local residents.

The Community Investment Board is a resident-led board hosted by the Southend Association of Voluntary Services (SAVS) and supported by Southend-on-Sea City Council. It brings together a diverse panel of representatives from across the local community and collaboratively ensures that funding decisions are transparent, equitable, and aligned with the most pressing needs of Southend’s communities.

Since its formation, the Board has prioritised investment in projects that; reduce health and social inequalities, improve wellbeing and mental health, strengthen community cohesion, support vulnerable or under-represented groups and build long-term resilience in the voluntary sector.

Mike Roffey, Chair – Community Investment Board said:

“The members of the Southend Community Investment Board are delighted that we have been able to invest over £2m in local good causes. There are so many wonderful volunteers doing great work in Southend that do not always receive the recognition they deserve. It is a great pleasure for members of the Board to visit these organisations in the places that they operate and to see at first hand the real difference they are making to people’s lives”

As the Community Investment Board looks to the future, it remains committed to investing in initiatives that empower communities, amplify local voices, and deliver meaningful, lasting change across Southend.

To find out more about the Community Investment Board, visit: www.cibsouthend.org.uk

Above: The ‘EmpowHer’ project at Trust Links which received Round 2 funding in 2025 from the Community Investment Board

Below: Befriending at Age Concern Southend which received Round 2 funding in 2025 from the Community Investment Board. Sarah Wilson, CEO at Age Concern Southend said, “We are so grateful for the support from the CIB to continue and grow these all important services.”